MSc projects 2013/2014 Induction session Dr Mike Spann M.Sc Project Director

Contents Overview of a research project Administration of project Key resources Key dates and what is required in the early stages

A research project This is an exercise in individual inquiry Is driven by the student, and steered by the supervisor – it is YOUR project! Address an academically challenging research problem May use theoretical or practical based methods 60 credits

What are assessors are looking for? Evidence of individual inquiry: –A well thought out research question addressing something which is academically challenging –Good understanding of the background literature –A sensible scope of work and sensible methodologies –Validation of your work and critical review –Appreciation of the limitations of the approaches adopted Tangible deliverables

What are assessors are looking for? A well presented thesis: –A clear and concise structure –Good use of English –Clear diagrams –Clear graphs –Good references (Harvard style) –A good introduction and conclusions –Use of SI units and sensible use of significant figures

Some tips Go to the library and read through some MSc, PhD and MPhil theses – you can get some of these on the UoB website – –Will give you an idea about the standard expected Ask your supervisor to give you examples of good work –Especially if they have supervised previous projects in a similar area

Project administration and skills Use a log book and meeting forms (available in general office) – submit copies of meeting forms to PGO. It is your responsibility to meet with your supervisor and request meetings (remember staff will be away during part of the summer) Expect to report on your progress in meetings Use a work plan or chart to structure your activities

Project resources Your supervisor’s book shelf! The library The on-line library The web of science Other sites: Canvas page for project info

Project resources MSc computer rooms Laboratory facilities – see Dave Checkley Stores and workshop - in Met and Mat Further briefing in spring semester

Project Assessment Conference Style Presentation5% Poster 5% Supervisors Assessment15% Dissertation (Final Report)70% Logbook 5%

Key dates Week 8 Autumn term – project allocation process begins Week 10 Autumn term - further project briefing and introduction to ethical review, risk assessment and project selection process Week 2 of Spring term announcement of project allocations Week 5 of Spring term full ethical review form MSc poster presentation week 1 of summer term MSc project conference day briefing in June MSc project conference day (late July) –Ten minute presentations –Need to have an organising committee (after exams) Final dissertation. Mon. 8 th September, 2014 –See handbook for further details 12:00 noon All dates are provisional